Explore the pretty village of Thornton Le Dale

Thornton Le Dale, North Yorkshire

When we tell you that this place is a chocolate box village, we’re really not joking.

Aside from having won a ridiculous number of awards for being Britain’s Prettiest Village, Thornton Le Dale has featured on countless calendars and sweet selection boxes over the years. Quite right, too, we say – it’s gorgeous.

Located in North Yorkshire, about 12 miles from Scarborough, it’s awash with thatched cottages, idyllic gardens and a stream that runs alongside the street. And if it does get you thinking about milk truffles, vanilla creams and other goodies, then you’re in luck; wander along to the Square and you’ll find a shop called the Chocolate Factory, which stocks enough handmade treats to make Willy Wonka jealous.

Don’t worry if you end up over-indulging, though. You’re within the North York Moors National Park, so you could always walk off a few calories with a scenic stroll. The views are pretty spectacular…